What's Happening?
UCLA has announced a four-year contract extension for women's basketball coach Cori Close, following the team's first NCAA national championship. The extension will keep Close at UCLA through the 2029-30 season. Under her leadership, the Bruins achieved
a historic 31-game winning streak and an undefeated regular-season Big Ten championship. Close, who has been with UCLA for 15 seasons, is the only coach in the program's history to surpass 300 wins. The team also had a record six players selected in the WNBA draft last month. Athletic Director Martin Jarmond praised Close for her character and leadership, emphasizing her commitment to developing student-athletes.
Why It's Important?
The contract extension for Cori Close is significant as it solidifies the leadership of a successful program that has recently reached new heights. By securing Close's future with the team, UCLA aims to maintain its competitive edge in women's college basketball. This move is likely to enhance the program's ability to attract top talent, both from high school recruits and the transfer portal. The extension also reflects the university's commitment to investing in women's sports, which could have broader implications for gender equity in collegiate athletics. The success of the program under Close's leadership could inspire other institutions to prioritize and invest in their women's sports programs.
What's Next?
With the contract extension in place, Coach Cori Close will focus on maintaining the Bruins' competitive status in women's college basketball. The team will need to adapt to the departure of key players like Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice, and Gabriela Jaquez. Close's proven ability to recruit talent through the transfer portal will be crucial in filling these gaps. The upcoming seasons will test the team's resilience and ability to sustain their success. Additionally, the program's continued success could influence other universities to follow suit in supporting and investing in their women's sports teams.
